I Have a Firewall
Source: iKeepSafe Internet Safety Coalition
Topics: Preteen Years (9-13), Keeping Your Child Safe on the Internet, more...
Firewalls
Don’t be put off by the word “firewall.” It’s not necessary to fully understand how it works; it’s enough to know what it does and why you need it. Firewalls help keep hackers from using your computer to send out your personal information without your permission. While anti-virus software scans incoming email and files, a firewall is like a guard, watching for outside attempts to access your system and blocking communications to and from sources you don’t permit.
Some operating systems and hardware devices come with a built-in firewall that may be shipped in the “off” mode. Make sure you turn it on. For your firewall to be effective, it needs to be set up properly and updated regularly. Check your online “Help” feature for specific instructions.
If your operating system doesn’t include a firewall, get a separate software firewall that runs in the background while you work, or install a hardware firewall — an external device that includes firewall software. Several free firewall software programs are available on the Internet.
About the Author
OnGuardOnline.gov provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.
Used with permission. Copyright © OnGuardOnline.gov
Reprinted with the permission of the iKeepSafe Coalition. © 2006 iKeepSafe Coalition. All Rights Reserved.
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